Hudson, Wisconsin sits right on the St. Croix River, just east of the Twin Cities, and feels like a place that knows exactly who it is. Historic storefronts line Second Street, the river frames nearly every view, and the energy is relaxed without feeling sleepy. Hudson has long been a favorite escape for Minnesotans, but it holds its own as a destination with personality, strong food and drink culture, and easy access to some of western Wisconsin’s most beautiful outdoor spaces. Staying at a local Bed and Breakfast or independent inn is the best way to experience Hudson the way residents do, with personal hospitality and a genuine sense of place that big hotels simply cannot offer.
The river defines life here. Walk the Hudson Riverwalk for sweeping views of the St. Croix and the iconic lift bridge, or spend an afternoon kayaking or paddleboarding when the weather is warm. Boat cruises run seasonally and are a relaxed way to see the bluffs and shoreline homes that give the area its character. Just minutes south of downtown, Willow River State Park is one of the most visited parks in Wisconsin, known for its waterfalls, wooded trails, and swimming beach. It is an easy half-day trip and a favorite for couples who want nature without a long drive.
Hudson’s downtown is compact and walkable, which makes it ideal for a Romantic getaway or a Couples getaway built around lingering meals and browsing local shops. San Pedro Cafe is consistently one of the most talked about restaurants in the region, drawing diners for bold flavors and a lively patio scene. Pier 500 sits right on the water and is known for its sunset views, while Bricks Neapolitan Pizza offers a more casual option that locals swear by. Coffee shops, wine bars, and bakeries fill in the gaps, making it easy to spend an entire day downtown without repeating an experience.
Art and history play a meaningful role in the city’s identity. The Phipps Center for the Arts brings rotating exhibitions and live performances to the heart of downtown. The Octagon House Museum and the Hudson Area History Museum offer insight into the city’s railroad roots and river trade past. Seasonal events like the Hudson Hot Air Affair in winter and summer concerts along the river give visitors a reason to return throughout the year.
When planning Things to do in Hudson, Wisconsin, many guests are surprised by how much variety fits into such a small area. Hiking, shopping, dining, live music, and river recreation all sit within a short radius. The city is also popular for intimate weddings and elopements, with scenic river views and nearby natural settings that feel special without being overproduced. Hudson, Wisconsin rewards visitors who slow down just enough to notice the river light at dusk, the sound of boats passing under the bridge, and the way downtown shifts from morning coffee to evening cocktails.
Choosing a Bed and Breakfast or independent inn in Hudson places you right into this rhythm. Properties affiliated with the Midwest Association of Independent Inns offer thoughtful details, local insight, and hosts who know where to send you for the best meal or quietest trail. Book directly with a Midwest Association of Independent Inns property to experience Hudson from the inside.
